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Flu linked to U.S. petting zoos The Public Health Agency of Canada is warning residents to be careful around pigs after a recent outbreak of influenza in the U.S. was linked to people, mostly children, handling and petting pigs at agricultural fairs and petting zoos. Although this particular strain of influenza, known as H3N2v, has not been detected in Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada said families should be aware that it could eventually be circulating in pigs in this country. Health officials said the H3N2v virus doesn't spread easily from swine to people and even less easily from person to person. In most cases, the virus causes only mild illness in people, but even so there are steps that can be taken to avoid contracting it. As certain groups including chilIndividuals may wish to check with their healthcare professional if they believe they have the flu and: · are 65 years of age or older · have a weakened immune system · experience severe symptoms · experience symptoms lasting longer than seven days dren under five, seniors, Aboriginal peoples, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are at greatest risk of developing serious complications related to the flu. Those groups should consider avoiding pig barns or pens, especially if sick pigs Health Oakville Beaver have been identified. If a child is taken to a petting zoo or fall fair parents should supervise the child carefully and ensure the child does not put anything they find around the animal pen in their mouth. Animal feed/treats and hay could spread disease. Parents should also ensure children wash their hands thoroughly after visiting with animals and should not allow toys or child equipment (strollers, etc.) into animal pens. Residents who have been in contact with pigs prior to becoming ill should communicate this to their doctor. Symptoms of H3N2v include fever (may not be present in the very young and old), runny nose or congestion, sore throat, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (in children five years of age or younger). 21 · Thursday, August 30, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Virus mild, but take precautions at fairs, animal attractions Call the doctor when... For more news, visit www. oakvillebeaver.com. 250 Wyecroft Rd., Unit 15, Oakville, ON 905.844.WELL (9355) www.acornhealth.ca drdavis@acornhealth.ca Family Chiropractor/Acupuncturist Dr. Jenna Davis INTERNATIONAL CENTRE, MISSISSAUGA - FREE PARKING! SEPTEMBER 7 to 9 ENTER TO WIN A $5,000 JANE DAYUS-HINCH AT THE SHOW Host of Wedding SOS Photo by Darren Goldstein/DSG PHOTO HOME DÉCOR PRIZE PACKAGE from The Bay National Gift Registry MEET & GREET SPECTACULAR DAILY FASHION SHOWS! RedTag.ca A DREAM VACATION TO THE EL DORADO RESORT! WIN of Boaden Banquet Centre's wedding receptions at the National Bridal Show EXPERIENCE A TASTE B U Y T I C K E T S O N L I N E A DIVISION OF www.nationalbridalshow.com The Brides' Project Fighting Cancer, One dress at a time